Interior acoustic comfort is a key parameter in the design of ALSTOM modern rolling stock. Train operators have specified traditionally the acoustic comfort in terms of Sound Pressure Level (SPL) but its relation with real acoustic comfort perceived by users is controversial and need to be studied. Several works suggest that psychoacoustic parameters are better descriptors of the noise effect on passengers comfort than the classical SPL approach. For this reason a prediction model of discomfort in high-speed train passenger cars have been developed using psychoacoustic parameters. This model has been built from the parameters registered in the passenger areas in the train, to characterize the psychoacoustics of the complete vehicle, and the subjective acoustic comfort assessment obtained from a set of Jury tests. This paper presents first the results of a preliminary study carried out using measurements with an acoustic head on a high-speed train. The results prove the viability of the model that calculates the passengers comfort level from the psychoacoustic parameters. Subsequently, the model obtained with the measurements carried out in six different high-speed trains is presented. Furthermore, with the results of the validation on passenger surveys in trains in commercial service, an extension of the model could be obtained including other aspects relating new high-speed trains and subjective acoustic comfort. This model will be used in future rolling stock designs to guarantee an optimal acoustic comfort of the passengers.
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